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What are the duties of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) as Head of the Department of Military Affairs?1. Permanent Chairman of Chiefs of Staff Committ
Question

What are the duties of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) as Head of the Department of Military Affairs?
1. Permanent Chairman of Chiefs of Staff Committee
2. Exercise military command over the three Service Chiefs
3. Principal Military Advisor to Defence Minister on all tri-service matters
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A.

1, 2 and 3

B.

1 and 2 only

C.

2 and 3 only

D.

1 and 3 only

Correct option is D

Statement 1 is correct.

One of the key responsibilities of the CDS is to serve as the Permanent Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee. This means that the CDS will head the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC), which includes the three service chiefs (Army, Navy, Air Force). Previously, this position rotated among the chiefs of the services, but the creation of the CDS provides permanent leadership to this body, ensuring more consistency in decision-making and inter-service coordination.

Statement 2 is incorrect.

The CDS does not exercise military command over the three service chiefs (Army Chief, Navy Chief, and Air Force Chief). The service chiefs continue to maintain operational command over their respective forces. The role of the CDS is more advisory and focused on coordination rather than exercising direct military command over the service chiefs. The CDS is tasked with facilitating jointness among the services in terms of operations, procurement, logistics, and training, but the service chiefs retain command of their respective forces.

Statement 3 is correct.

The CDS serves as the Principal Military Advisor to the Defence Minister on all matters involving the three services. This includes providing guidance on joint military operations, coordination between the Army, Navy, and Air Force, and other issues related to tri-service functioning. This advisory role is crucial for ensuring a unified and integrated approach to national security and defense planning.

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